Calvin College
A-Z | People | Calendar | Maps | Make a Gift

NSF Scholarships

Science Crossing Boundaries

In 2009, Calvin College received an award from the National Science Foundation to provide over $500,000 in scholarships over four years to undergraduate students pursuing scientific computation (the integration of computation and science). Scholarships ranged from $4000 to $8000 per year and were renewable during the grant period if recipients continued to meet the eligibility criteria. The first of these scholarships were awarded in 2009-2010.  The original funding extends through the 2012-13 academic year, but does not include funding for new scholarships in 2012-13.

We have applied for another NSF grant and have been recommended for funding, pending some final approval steps.  Although we do not know when we will receive final notification about this award, we have opened up scholarship appliations for the 2012-13 academic year with a deadline of April 4, 2012 April 10, 2012.  (The deadline has been extended since so many students and teachers are on Spring break the Week of April 2-6.) 

To be eligible for an NSF Scientific Computing Scholarship, a student must

  • demonstrate an interest in scientific computation and modeling (majoring in computer science is not required -- see details below), and make good progress toward a degree that supports this interest,
  • be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen,
  • enroll as a full-time student at Calvin next year,
  • demonstrate academic potential or ability, and
  • demonstrate financial need as defined by the FAFSA.

How do I apply?

There are separate procedures for in-coming students (currently in high school or transfering to Calvin in the fall) and for current Calvin students.

High school and transfer students

Apply using our online application form. Deadline: April 4, 2012.  April 10, 2012.  (The deadline has been extended since so many students and teachers are on Spring break the Week of April 2-6.) 

Don't have time just now?  Send email to isri@calvin.edu telling us

  • your name
  • your school
  • your teacher's name 
  • your teacher's email address (Double check that you have typed everything correctly.)

We will contact teachers so they can begin their part of the process.

Current Calvin students

If you have a science major, you should see the NSF Scientific Computing Scholarship listed when you fill out your scholarship applications in KnightVision this year. If you did not apply during the KnightVision application period, send us an email at isri@calvin.edu.

What sort of academic program must I pursue?

Scholarship recipients must pursue an academic program that combines computation and science. Possible programs include

  • A major in one of the sciences or mathematics and a minor in scientific computation and modeling,
  • A major in computer science or information systems and a minor or major in a science with a clear plan to integrate science and computing via course projects, research experiences, or similar.
  • A BCS degree in computer science (which requires additional science cognates), and a clear plan to integrate science and computing via course projects, research experiences, or similar.

Other options may be possible, but all programs will require students to take courses in both computer science and the natural sciences and to participate in projects which combine skills in both areas.

Are there any other requirements?

Student receiving scholarships are required to provide biographical and academic information each semester and to keep us informed about any changes in their academic program.  We are required to provide this information to the NSF in order to maintain our grant.   Failure to comply with reporting requests is grounds for losing the scholarship.

Scientific Computing Resources at Calvin

Find out More

Calvin College Calvin College 3201 Burton SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 526-6000 | 1-800-688-0122 | info@calvin.edu